Pigeon Plum

Pigeon Plum    

Botanical Name: Coccoloba diversifolia   

Description (growth habits, light requirements & care): A tree growing up to 30-40 feet tall. Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained, sandy soils. Tolerates coastal conditions.  

How you can help by planting this: Provides food and habitat for birds and wildlife, and helps prevent erosion along coastal areas. Provides significant food and cover for wildlife. Nectar plant for large orange sulphur (Phoebis agarithe), Schaus' swallowtail (Papilio aristodemus ponceanus) and other butterflies, and attracts bee pollinators. Birds and other animals eat the fruits. Raccoons leave noticable scratch marks on female trees.

Flower and Fruit (color, characteristics, season): Small, inconspicuous greenish-white flowers bloom, followed by large clusters of purple-black berries. Edible.  

Pairs well with: Sea Grape, Florida Thatch Palm, and Bahama Wild Coffee for a diverse, coastal ecosystem.